Hill People Gear Tarahumara vs. Deuter Strike
Two carry-on travel backpacks, compared spec for spec.
Hill People Gear Tarahumara
| Capacity | 16 L |
| Weight | 0.7 kg |
| Dimensions | 44×24×10 cm |
| Airline fit | 100% |
| Price | $125 |
Feature by feature
| Hill People Gear Tarahumara | Feature | Deuter Strike |
|---|---|---|
| Storage | ||
| S | Compression | N |
| None | Expanded Capacity | 33L |
| 0 | Opening | 4 |
| N | Passport | N |
| N | Passthrough | N |
| Carry | ||
| S | Backpack | S |
| R | Hip Belt | R |
| S | Sternum Strap | S |
| Inside | ||
| 0 | Laptop | 0 |
| 2 | Main Compartments | 1 |
| N | Organizer | Y |
| Outside | ||
| × | Hard Shell | × |
| N | Rain-fly | N |
| 2 | Water Bottle Holder | 2 |
| Y | Water Resistant | Y |
| Material | |
| 500D Cordura | PES 600 Coat, 600D PES |
Few carry on backpacks capture the rugged, outdoor appeal quite like the Hill People Gear Tarahumara and the Deuter Strike. They're both built for the road and designed to withstand the rigors of travel. However, they also offer different perks which set them apart.
The Hill People Gear Tarahumara is a intriguing proposition for those who value lightness and compactness. Weighing in at 0.7 pounds, it comfortably dwarfs the 1.3 pounds of the Deuter Strike. It's taller than the Deuter Strike, which, complemented by its slimmer width and lesser depth, offers a sleeker design. Plus, it's made of 500D Cordura, a material known for its durability, and offers 16 liters of capacity. However, what probably sets it apart the most is its compatibility with all airlines, a feature quite essential for a carry-on backpack.
On the contrary, the Deuter Strike comes in with a broader dimension and a heavier weight. Nevertheless, it accommodates more, clocking in at a roomy 30 liters of capacity. Made of PES 600 Coat, 600D PES, it exhibits comparable durability as the Tarahumara. Unfortunately, it falls short on airline compatibility, working with just under half of them.
- Comparisons:
- Weight: Tarahumara (0.7 lbs) vs Strike (1.3 lbs)
- Dimension: Tarahumara (44" x 24" x 10") vs Strike (25" x 29" x 46")
- Capacity: Tarahumara (16 liters) vs Deuter Strike (30 liters)
- Airline Compatibility: Tarahumara (100%) vs Strike (48%)
- Material: Tarahumara (500D Cordura) vs Strike (PES 600 Coat, 600D PES)
As far as performance and impressions go, reviewers for the Tarahumara commended its build quality, its 'elegantly simple' design, and its surprising TARDIS-like capacity. It's well-suited for various uses thanks to its convenient center zip and robust build.
Although there is less review data on the Deuter Strike, based on its sturdy material and larger capacity, it certainly has its own charms. Depending on your use case - whether you prefer a lightweight, slimmer design with the Tarahumara, or the spaciousness of the Strike, both have their merits. Ultimately, it boils down to personal preference and your specific travel needs. Choose wisely and tread lightly.